Noosa River anchoring restrictions

Anchoring restrictions were introduced on 15 July 2024 as part of the Noosa River waterway management plan.

Vessels over 5m in length cannot anchor within 60m of the busy southern shore or be grounded on the shoreline between Lake Doonella and the Garth Prowd Bridge.

After listening to feedback about access to the shore, MSQ has relaxed anchoring restrictions on the Noosa River.

From 5 October 2024, a 6 month trial will allow vessels between 5m and 7.5m to anchor on or near the southern shore of the Noosa River, for up to 2 hours a day, as long as they anchor safely and responsibly and consider the impact on other river users in the area.

On 24 February 2025 the next stage of anchoring restrictions will commence. Vessels over 5m in length will not be permitted to anchor within the Woods Bay and Dog Beach areas of the Noosa River.

On 24 March 2025, vessels over 5m in length will not be permitted to anchor in the Noosa Sound area also known as Little Woods Bay.

The trial allowing vessels between 5m and 7.5m to anchor safely and responsibly on or near the shore of the Noosa River, for up to 2 hours a day will also apply to the Woods Bay, Dog Beach and Little Woods areas.

Vessels under 5m in length are allowed to anchor in the area if they also anchor safely and do not obstruct other river users.

Anchoring restrictions clear Noosa River shoreline

Before restrictions
After restrictions

Frequently asked questions

What is the role of MSQ regarding the Noosa River vessel management plan reforms?

MSQ, as the state’s maritime regulator, is responsible for protecting Queensland waterways and the people who use them by improving and responding to maritime safety and marine pollution and providing essential services such as aids to navigation.

Following extensive stakeholder and community consultation, MSQ is delivering the Noosa River Vessel Waterway Management Plan to address safety, amenity and environmental issues resulting from vessel congestion in the Noosa River.

Why has MSQ implemented anchoring restrictions in Noosa River?

To address safety issues in the busiest areas of the Noosa River.

What vessels are affected by the Noosa River anchoring restrictions?

Vessels over 5m in length can no longer anchor within a distance of 60m from the shore, or be grounded on the shoreline, from Lake Doonella to the Garth Prowd Bridge. These vessels may enter the restricted area to set down and pick up passengers but must not anchor or ground in the restricted area.

From 24 February 2025 vessels over 5m in length can no longer anchor in Woods Bay. This means the Woods Bay no anchoring area adjoins the 60m southern shore no anchoring area from the Garth Prowd Bridge to a line running due south from the land spit separating Woods Bay and Noosa Sound at approximate position 26°23.325 S 153°04.9 E. Vessels over 5m in length can also no longer anchor within the Dog Beach area of Noosa Inlet from the Spit to approximate position 26°23.271 S 153°04.542 E.

From 24 March 2025 vessels over 5m in length can no longer anchor in Noosa Sound also known as Little Woods Bay adjoining the 60m southern shore no anchoring area from the Woods Bay to a line running due south from approximate position 26°23.271 S 153°04.542 E.

On a trial basis, vessels between 5m and 7.5m can anchor for up to two hours a day within the restricted area to access shops, services or engage in recreational activities as long as they anchor safely and responsibly and consider the impact on other river users in the area.

All vessels can still access public and private jetties in these areas.

Why has MSQ relaxed the anchoring restrictions?

MSQ has listened to feedback about access to the shore for 'day-tripper' boaties, and after balancing risk and safety implications and taking onboard the benefits of public amenity, will trial the modification to anchoring restrictions.

The trial will run for 6 months and MSQ is confident allowing to vessels of 5m–7.5m in length to access the shore for a maximum 2 hours a day (i.e. within a 24 hour timeframe) will be a benefit for the community and all river users.

Can vessels under 5m access the shore?

Vessels under 5 metres will still be able to anchor in the area without restrictions, provided they are also anchored safely and do not obstruct other river users.  

Can I beach my 5m+ vessel near the boat ramp while I park or retrieve my car?

MSQ recognises trailer parking can sometimes be limited. In these circumstances, short–term beaching or anchoring near the boat ramp is acceptable as long as it is done safely and only for the time necessary to undertake the task required.

Can I fish at anchor on a vessel 5m+ within the area?

Yes, as long as you are genuinely actively fishing and not causing a safety, amenity or pollution issue for other waterway users.

Can I rig up my 5m+ sailing boat or have my larger passive craft, such as a kayak, temporarily on the beach?

Yes, for a period of up to 2 hours a day. Enforcement officers will apply common sense and assess the location and size of your vessel, impact on other river users, activity in the area and time spent.

I have my boat anchored in that area, where can I move to?

The Noosa River Management Plan has been structured to ensure sustainable use and enjoyment of this beautiful natural resource. Boat owners can anchor their vessels in non-restricted areas in the waterway as long as they follow safety protocols. These include anchoring outside of navigation corridors, maintaining a distance of at least 30 metres from and infrastructure and displaying an anchor light.

What if I have special circumstances?

Contact your local MSQ Marine office at Noosa on [email protected] or 5373 2310 to discuss the matter. Applications will be considered on a case–by–case basis.

Last updated
05 February 2025